Cornwall Resignalling Program

The Cornish Mainline Resignalling Programme of 2024

In February 2024, Network Rail embarked on a long-planned project to close signal boxes at Lostwithiel, Par and Truro and to transfer control of their sections of mainline to a new workstation at Exeter power box. This also involved track alterations in a few locations and the removal of the vintage semaphore signalling.

This section of the website has been established to document the changes made during this project.

There are 3 sections of this page which can be found below:

Worksites & Engineering Trains - showing the work 'on the ground' undertaken during the project.
The New Workstation at Exeter - some priviledged views from Martin Duff of the new signalling panel.
On-track plant - a log of plant/machinery used on the project, compiled by Mick House.

WORKSITES & ENGINEERING TRAINS

Please select a section below. It will expand to show you the images and information we have recorded from each location.

Truro

Please also see our comprehensive section on Truro featuring numerous historical images. Click here.

In the early hours of 27.02.2024, the Network Rail signaller locks Truro East Signal Box up for the final time. Copyright Sid Warren.

Truro Signal Box Closure - from Martin Duff - 27.02.2024

Hello admins,

I’m at work tonight for the start of the re-signalling blockade.  As I write this, the witching hour has arrived and the dying moments of Truro signal box are upon us.  Born and raised in Truro, this signal box was the first for a visit 40 years ago, so this moment is poignant for me – I never imagined I’d be so close to all aspects of its closure!   When I did my signalling training school with Railtrack, I was allocated Truro for my practical training - what a super time that was, the mail trains were still running as were the Ponsandane fuel tanks, and a real bonus during that time, signalling 47798/47799 on the Royal Train!  I paid my final visit last Tuesday and made a last journey under control of the semaphores yesterday – Monday 26/02/2024.

For the record, the last loco-hauled passenger train signalled was the 21.45 Penzance – Paddington sleeper which left 6 minutes late 22.39 behind 57605.  The Falmouth branch on the final day was in the hands of Sprinters 150247 and 150261.  The last branch arrival was the 23.22 from Falmouth, which arrived 23.53 (150247).  The empty stock left at 23.56 for Penzance depot.The final up train was 6G74, the 19.17 Westbury – Truro engineers which ran via Penzance.

4 castle class units worked services through Truro on the last day.  The last down passenger train was 2C89, the 18.59 Cardiff – Penzance worked by a Class 802 unit, which departed 00.14 (Tuesday morning).

Remarkable to consider that the next passenger trains through Truro now will be under the control of the new Exeter workstation.

The memories of this place will stay with me forever. Farewell to Truro SB, 1899-2024.

Cheers,
Martin D

Cornwall re-signalling day 1 - Martin Duff - 27.02.2024

Evening admins,

This week, until Sunday late evening the lines are blocked between Burngullow and St. Erth – the main task being trackwork in the Truro area laying the new crossover between Carvedras and Truro viaducts.  Unlike the old east crossover which was trailing, the new one will be facing, so a down train may be run to the up platform.

I’m not on site presently, however can confirm all 4 down direction semaphore signals at the west end of Truro (T20 bay, T47 down, T26 up to down and T25 yard) were felled during the day shift today, and much earlier this morning, the up platform inner home signal T6 had been uprooted and put safely in store well before 03.00, so the construction team could get ahead with work on the crossing.  Goodness knows how many trains, not to mention loco classes they’ve had pass by them since November 1971.

Until late Sunday, down trains are terminating at St. Austell and starting back to Plymouth direct from the down platform – this will be the last use of the ground frame which has been there since March 1980 when St. Austell SB closed and control transferred to Burngullow (Par from 1986). From Monday week the crossover will be fully signalled and controlled from the workstation.

NRES is correct about what happens next – early Monday 04/03 the block extends to the west end of Liskeard and the Newquay branch, together with the clay lines.

The last opportunity to see a clay train running round under the semaphore signals at Lostwithiel will be TOMORROW – Wednesday 28/02.  The 12.36 lunchtime trip from Goonbarrow is due to run. Saturday morning 02/03, the VERY LAST working on the Cornish main line under semaphore signals is expected to be the Exeter Riverside – St. Blazey clay liner 6V74, due Par 12.21.

Nothing transfers to the workstation until the day the line reopens on March 11.  The preceding weekend when the block extends closer to Plymouth, the commissioning will happen.

The CRS website has already been updated about the details of the last train signalled by Truro signal box.  As reported the first train when the lines re-open is expected to be the “Golden Hind”, the 05.03 Penzance – Paddington.  Clay operations resume the same day, with the 06.14 trip working from St. Blazey to Goonbarrow in readiness for the lunchtime run to Fowey.  There are no test trains scheduled in the preceding days.

The electronic version of the "pre-job" appendix is safe for the moment – it won’t update on the public sites for a while. Enclosed a few photographs from site with programme manager permission – showing the work on Carvedras viaduct and track relay at Penwithers Junction. More soon.

Cheers, Martin D

Trackwork at Penwithers Junction. Copyright Martin Duff/Network Rail.

One of the impressive Volker Rail rail-cranes moving track panels at Truro. Copyright Martin Duff/Network Rail.

Truro Viaduct missing something! Copyright Martin Duff/Network Rail.

Engineers Trains on Truro Viaduct 27.02.2024 - Jonathan Harbage

66719 on Truro viaduct 27.02.2024 - Copyright Jonathan Harbage.

66709 on Truro viaduct, 27.02.2024 - Copyright Jonathan Harbage.

Truro Signal Felling 27.02.2024 - Sid Warren

A selection of images provided by Sid Warren, taken on 27.02.2024

All images above with thanks and copyright to Sid Warren.

Cornwall re-signalling day 2 - Martin Duff - 28.02.2024

Afternoon admins,

I’ve been on site at Truro this afternoon. Lots of updates to share!

Signals T7 and T 50 (top of Pydar Street) between the viaducts remain for now and are due to be felled on Monday. Sobering to think they’ll never again show “a good off”.

Looking west from black bridge, the down main signal CL5903 and up to down signal CL5905 has been set up. Both powered up and showing red. Copyright Martin Duff.

Also an on track machine in the tamper siding for Mr House to enjoy! Copyright Martin Duff.

Good progress is being made with the level crossing installation. Copyright Martin Duff.

A rail crane passing with track panels. Copyright Martin Duff.

The crane continuing through the down platform. Copyright Martin Duff.

The name board and ornate brick work of Truro Signal Box. Copyright Martin Duff.

Moving to Carvedras viaduct, a ballast train transited to the site from the down line after being stabled west of Truro. 66846 is seen passing over the out of use crossover 33 and soon to be recovered shunt signal 37. Copyright Martin Duff.

This is by now, the only semaphore shunt signal left. By the viaduct wall on the down line is T49, due to be felled in the next day or so. This signal is fairly new in comparison to the others, only being installed in 1992 (see earlier CRS pages Truro). Copyright Martin Duff.

On the viaduct we see the engineering train and Quattro road rail vehicles. These are working on the new crossover. Copyright Martin Duff.

Nights on the Truro blockade
Alan Peters

GBRf 59003 pictured in the platform at Truro on 24th Februray 2024 working 6C21 Westbury - Truro with the Volker cranes for the re-signalling possession. Copyright Alan Peters

A last look at Truro signal Box just 4 hours before closure 26th February 2024. Copyright Alan Peters

T6 off, waiting to catch the train on 26/02/24 to Plymouth to bring 6C25 to Truro, by the time the train had reached Truro T6 had gone!. Copyright Alan Peters

By first light Truro Signal Box had closed and T6 signal had already been removed, the road being closed with work taking place on the new level crossing 27/02/24. Copyright Alan Peters

Colas Rail 70803 with 6C25 stands at the redundant T49, unlit and disconnected on 28th February 2024. Copyright Alan Peters

With the absence of T6 and the new replacement CL5900 not installed, fixed red CL5902 can be seen above the first wagon behind Colas Rail 70803 on 28/02/24. Copyright Alan Peters

Banner Repeater T47 BR disconnected on 28/02/24. Copyright Alan Peters

A farewell to T7 unlit and disconnected, before departing with 6C25 (wrong road) on 29/02/24. Copyright Alan Peters

Cornwall re-signalling day 3 - Martin Duff - 29.02.2024

Evening admins,

The new points at Truro east are in and 66702 is on site with a PW train (Photos by permission of program manager). This crossover will allow a down train to terminate in the up platform if necessary, or a shunt move from the up to the down line.

GB Railfreight 66702 at the Truro worksite. 29.02.2024. Copyright Martin Duff.

The new crossover in place at Truro, 29.02.2024. Copyright Martin Duff.

Engineers Trains at Truro - Jonathan Harbage - 29.02.2024

66709 at Truro, 29.02.2024. Copyright Jonathan Harbage.

66702 at Truro, 29.02.2024. Copyright Jonathan Harbage.

66709 at Truro, 29.02.2024. Copyright Jonathan Harbage.

66702 on the Truro outskirts - Joseph Birchall - 01.03.2024

66 702 on the back of the 16:20 up movement (6G75). Note the decapitated signal. Copyright Joseph Birchall.

Cornwall Re-signalling day 4 - 01.03.2024 - Martin Duff

Hello admins,

Today the trailing crossover outside Truro signal box has been recovered and replaced with plain line.

Some trap point recoveries are also complete - Penwithers Junction and the down bay.

A reminder that tomorrow sees the final clay working under the semaphores at Lostwithiel and Par.

The removed crossover at Truro. Copyright Martin Duff.

Engineers Trains on the viaduct - 01.03.2024 - Jonathan Harbage

66846 and what must be one of the last semaphores standing, 01.03.2024. Copyright Jonathan Harbage.

66846 and 70814 stand on Truro viaduct, 01.03.2024. Copyright Jonathan Harbage.

70814 on Truro viaduct, 01.03.2024. Copyright Jonathan Harbage.

Truro Tamper - 02.03.2024 - Joe Birchall

Just North of Truro, at Paulls Farm Overbridge, a Colas track machine heads for the worksite. 02.03.2024, copyright Joe Birchall.

Cornwall re-signalling day 5 - 02.03.2024 - Martin Duff

Afternoon admins,

Today the last 3 semaphore signals in the Truro area were removed.

These were T7 up main starting, T50 down main home (both situated between the viaducts) and T49 down main inner home (just the station side of Carvedras viaduct).

T49 was the last one to go. All were safely moved to secure storage by early afternoon.

Further up on the patch 66021 worked 6V74 the clay empties back from Exeter, passing Lostwithiel 11.04 and Par 11.14, being the last freight to be signalled by traditional signalling in the area.

Tomorrow afternoon the engines leave for Westbury, and will be the last light locos under the semaphores. 14.50 St. Blazey - Westbury details on RTT and other feeds.

There are no short form HST diagrams on Sunday I’m aware of (will correct this tomorrow if the situation is different) so tonight’s 20.48 St. Austell - Plymouth 43098/43198 will be the last HST to use the ground frame crossover.

Cheers for now,

Martin D

Truro report - 02.03.2024 - Mick House

Along with a vast number of road rail machines on site there were three heavy duty rail mounted cranes and the wagons that accompany them, the first and largest is Kirow KRC 810UK 100 Tonne diesel hydraulic, No: DRK 81601, run by VolkerRail with Trinity Rail 60ft container flat wagon No: KFA 97402. Copyright Mick House.

The next two cranes are, Kirow KRC 250UK 25 Tonne diesel hydraulics, No’s: DRK 81621 Smithy and DRK 81622 Sarge, run by VolkerRail with YWA Salmon wagon DB 996970 sandwiched between the two. Copyright Mick House.

Also on site and stabled at the time of my visit was Matisa B 41 UE universal Tamper No: DR 75407 Gerry Taylor. Copyright Mick House.

In conjunction with the re-signalling, Truro is having a new set of crossing gates installed by contractor’s Siemens; they have also manufactured the gates. Copyright Mick House.

All of the redundant signalling is being put in a compound at the end of Truro yard sidings, its fate unknown, I did note that all of the finials have been removed and some of the signals are damaged, so will they be scraped or given to the preservation fraternity? Copyright Mick House.

Truro Signalbox Crossover - 02.03.2024 - Mick House.

Truro signalbox crossover as it was at the start of the 2024 engineering works. Copyright Mick House.

The same view on 01.03.2024. The crossover is removed and has been replaced with plain line. Copyright Mick House.

Preparing the track bed and laying the sleepers on the down line where the crossover used to be, the up line was completed over the night before. 02.03.2024, copyright Mick House.

Clearing up - 02.03.2024 - Mick House

The signalling work is not quite finished yet at Truro, but they are starting to clear the site of unrequired material and depositing it in the yard for removal at a later date, maybe by rail or road.

Road rail excavator 1187 with trailer 1199 in tow, operated by Quattro is being used along with one of their road-only telehandlers 1032, of note is that all vehicles on site have a banksman on the ground giving the operators guidance, assistance with slinging, loading and unloading of materials. They usually walk in front or to the side of the vehicle, so the operator also has a line of sight with the banksman. All wear headphones with microphones for two-way communication.

Clearing up at Truro, 02.03.2024. Copyright Mick House.

Tamper Departure - 03.03.2024 - Jon Hird

Both Colas Rail track machines left the Truro worksite on 03.03.2024. One went to Tavistock Yard, the other went to Liskeard sidings.

A Colas track machine waits for a path to leave Truro working wrong road, 03.03.2024. Copyright Jon Hird.

Plant on the move - 04.03.2024 - Joe Birchall

A road/rail excavator at the front with a cherry picker behind at Paulls farm overbridge (North of Truro). 04.03.2024. Copyright Joe Birchall.

T49 the Last Semaphore Signal to be taken down at Truro - Mick House

The last signal to be removed From Truro was T49 the down main inner home signal situated to the east of the station and between the signal box and the west end of Carvedras viaduct on the south side. Copyright Mick House.

Quattro 360 excavator 1030 with a grab fitted to its arm and top & tailed with trailers 647 front and 646 rear head up the down line to remove it. Copyright Mick House.

The excavator heads towards the viaduct. Note signal T49 still in place. Copyright Mick House.

The same view later in the day, the signal has gone. And with that, the last of Truros semaphores have been swept away. Copyright Mick House.

Signal T49 joins the pile of redundant signalling equipment in Truro yard. 04.03.2024, copyright Mick House.

Semaphore destruction in Truro yard. Copyright Mick House.

I am informed that the signals in the redundant signalling pile at the end of the Truro yard sidings are to be saved and will go into preservation and I am pleased to say I have a part of one, donated to me by NetworkRail staff, I was given T49s number board. Copyright Mick House.

3D Laser-mapping at Truro - 04.03.2024 - Mick House

After the signalling had been installed, the Truro site was 3D Laser Mapped, using a GRP System FX rail mounted trolley with a laptop, 3D laser (GRP 5000) and Inertial Measurement System (IMS 5000) mounted on it, the system emits laser pulses, which are then reflected off objects and returned to a sensor, this measures the time it takes for the pulses to return allowing it to create a 3D map of the environment, this is imputed into the laptop.

3D laser mapping being carried out at Truro. 04.03.2024, copyright Mick House.

New Crossover at Truro - location & access - 05.03.2024 - Mick House

To replace the crossover that was by Truro signal box, a new one has been installed further up the line between Carvedras Viaduct and B3284 Kenwyn Road Bridge marked with a Blue line on the map (see below), map courtesy of Google maps and modified by myself. Unfortunately I was unable to get access to the site. There is also an access point with off road parking at the junction of Carew road, Tremayne road and Hendra Lane, access stairs in Yellow on the map, still unfinished (photo below) and off road Parking in Grey on the map.

A map of the new crossover at Truro - please see Micks notes above for a key. Copyright Mick House.

New access steps at the junction of Tremayne road and Hendra Lane, 05.03.2024. Copyright Mick House.

New crossing gates at Truro - 11.03.2024 - Mick House

The new level crossing gates are fully installed at Truro. On both sides of the level crossing you have information boards. 11.03.2024, copyright Mick House.

Looking in from the main road the first impression you get of new level crossing gates. 11.03.2024, copyright Mick House.

I was given permission to go to the top of the steps of the Signalbox to photograph. 11.03.2024, copyright Mick House.

From the south side looking towards the Signalbox. 11.03.2024, copyright Mick House.

Looking towards the station with class 150 221. 11.03.2024, copyright Mick House.

For the next two weeks the crossing will be manned, for final adjustments and as some of the digital scanning equipment has to be linked into Exeter Power box. 11.03.2024, copyright Mick House.

Par

Please also see our 'Par' section of the website featuring numerous historical images. Click here.

In its final week of operation, a fantastic sunrise was captured above Par Signal Box. 26.02.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

Mid Cornwall re-signalling - Monday 04/03 - Martin Duff
Afternoon admins,

The block has extended up to the west end of Liskeard this morning.

Par and Lostwithiel signal boxes were formally taken out of use just before 07.00.

The majority of work today is the necessary disconnections in the area.

A few photographs at Par and at St. Blazey including SB7 which is shortly to be recovered.

Cheers

The workforce on the tracks at Par during the blockade. 04.03.2024, copyright Martin Duff.

Shunt signal and down signal at Par awaiting removal. 04.03.2024, copyright Martin Duff.

I wonder where this will end up? The Par Signal Box nameplate. 04.03.2024, copyright Martin Duff.

Signals PR5 for the connection to the mainline and for the Newquay branch at Par. 04.03.2024, copyright Martin Duff.

PR5 04.03.2024, copyright Martin Duff.

Signal PR9 awaits its fate. 04.03.2024, copyright Martin Duff.

Shunt signal PR40 awaits recovery. 04.03.2024, copyright Martin Duff.

SB7 is another semaphore due to be felled. 04.03.2024, copyright Martin Duff.

Disconnected levers. 04.03.2024, copyright Martin Duff.

Last train through Par semaphores - 04.03.2024 - Alan Peters

With Par Signal Box officially closed, 6C26 quietly passes through Par en route to Lostwithiel in possession under the semaphores for the very last time before removal, it seemed only right to capture the somber moment in the early hours of 4th March 2024. Copyright Alan Peters.

Par re-signalling update - 05.03.2024 - Neil Phillips

I didn't manage to get down to Par station yesterday (Monday) partly due to yet more poor weather, but today's blue skies were not to be missed. The first signal I encountered was still intact, but I soon discovered this was Par's 'last man standing', to follow Mick House's lead on Truro yesterday - all of the rest (except some ground/shunt signals) had had their arms removed. It was strange to think I had been photographing trains passing these fully operational just 48 hours earlier.

None of the three heavy rail cranes were on site - at the moment it appears that track work is taking priority, with a gang heavily involved on the west end cross-over. It was too soon to work out what the guys at the east end were up to! Just one new signal near the signal box appeared to have been raised into position, apparently a down starter on the up line so not a replacement (since Truro has gained a new up starter on the down line I assume some degree of two-way operation is envisaged?)

I will keep an eye on progress over the coming days - weather permitting!

Par's own 'last man standing' - the up home bracket signal - 5th March 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

A view to the west showing the old arm-less down start and 'last man' up bracket signals, with the new (and considerably less inspiring but no doubt efficient) new order CL5835 to the fore - and a sea of orange across the tracks beyond! - 5th March 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Activity ramping up at the east end. The down goods loop start signal, partially hidden in vegetation, has also been shorn of its arm. This loop is seldom used these days (a Class 70 fitted with Fugro RILA track recording gear was seen parked on it a couple of years ago) - 5th March 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

A Quattro road/rail track machine passes slowly along platform 2 flanked by the two now arm-less up start signals - 5th March 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Par Signal Box without those signals just doesn't look right..... - 5th March 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

The sad notice in the window of Par Signalbox - 5th March 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Par Signal PR2 laid to rest - 07.03.2024 - Craig Munday

At Par on 07.03.2024, I stumbled upon the rather poignant sight of my Par down home PR2 being gently lowered back in the yard. It had been removed in one piece from Lanescot (over 1000 yards away), and I have to commend the recovery team for the superb condition it was in. A clean cut across the bottom, wires attached and even the spectacles intact. As its life with Network Rail ends, we can hope to see it once again vertical on a private railway.

Par down home signal PR2 being lowered into the Network Rail compound at Par, 07.03.2024. Copyright Craig Munday.

Par update - 08.03.2024 - Jon Hird & Neil Phillips

Par's up home bracket signal now looking a little sorry for itself. 8th March 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

New and (remains of) the old down start signals together - temporarily. 8th March 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Assembly of the replacement for the iconic bracket signal at the signal box in progress - note the 'feather' lying on the platform. Newquay branch departures and passing Class 66s on clay empties will never be the same...... 8th March 2024 (see Jon's visit below for an image of the completed signal). Copyright Neil Phillips.

East end of Par station with three new signals on show, and two already 'fired up' beyond the footbridge. 8th March 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Let's hope this new Down Goods Loop signal sees more action than the old one has lately! 8th March 2024. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Jon visited a few hours after Neil on 08.03.2024, it's astonishing to see how much was achieved in a short space of time.

A first look at the new colour light signals beside the former signal box at Par. 08.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Felled semaphores in the NR compound alongside a fleet of road/rail vehicles. 08.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

New signage for drivers of IET units on Par platform. 08.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

One for Mr. House to enjoy.. a tracked road/rail vehicle at the worksite. 08.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

New colour-light signals lit up on the mainline outside the former signal box. 08.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

A Colas tamper at work on the connection from the branch platform to the mainline/chapel siding. 08.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

A convoy of road/rail vehicles arrive back at the station. 08.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

A hive of activity on platform 3 as the finishing touches are applied to the new up signal. 08.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The final push at Par - 10.03.2024 - Jon Hird

New up signals now powered up and working, plus new relay cabinets. 10.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

This old signal is still standing minus its arm - some of the workers thought it may remain for now, until time can be found to dismantle it at a later date. 10.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Before and after at Par - May 2023 / March 2024

The same view of the same service, 10 months apart. In March 2023, semaphores and CDA's were the order of the day for the lunchtime Goonbarrow - Fowey working. In March 2024, the semaphores and CDA's have both gone. Instead we have JIA's and Colour Light Signals. Copyright Jon Hird.

lostwithiel

CAUTION! Engineering trains may be operating. Signage at Lostwithiel on 02.03.2024. Copyright Jon Hird.

Lostwithiel Resignalling Day 1 - 04.03.2024 - Alan Peters

The Volker cranes were taken from Truro to Lostwithiel by 6C26 once Par and Lostwithiel Signal Boxes were closed and the possession extended, the cranes being detached in the Up Loop with the engineering train being pushed back for the various work taking place around Lostwithiel including plain line to former the clay sidings. A last look at LL3 signal, as shortly after the train arrived the arm was removed, LL5 the much photographed signal at the end of the Up platform already had its arm removed. In heavy rain work continued on the destruction of the semaphores a sad end to Cornwall's railway scene. Possibly the last picture of LL3 with the arrival of 6C26 under possession from Burngullow on the 4th March 2024. Copyright Alan Peters.

The heavens opened when Colas Rail 66846 arrived with 6C26 at LL5 signal, the arm already removed, note the ground signal had also been removed 04/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters.

Two of the orange army look on as LL57 looses its fine finials 04/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters.

Colas Rail 66846 top and tail with 70814 (out of sight) at Lostwithiel, the last classic shot of a train in the platform with now redundant LL57 in the distance 04/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters

The Volker Cranes being detached from Colas Rail 70814 at Lostwithiel, with LL6 still holding on to its arms on 04/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters

The Down Loop signal LL40 the next casualty to loose its finial and arm 04/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters.

The much photographed old Western Region 9 car stop board has also been felled on 04/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters

A general view of the Network Rail site access at Lostwithiel on the old clay sidings on 04/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters.

The felling of LL57 - 04.03.2024 - Mick House

Standing at the western end of Lostwithiel station down side, LL57 with its two semaphores was about to be felled and laid to rest. Copyright Mick House.

Brought in to do the job was Quattro road rail crane No: 1272 a Terex Demag AC40, with a maximum lift of 40 tonnes. Copyright Mick House.

This was ably assisted by Quattro 360 excavator No: 1021, a Komatsu PW160-8 Megarailer, that supported the signal at the bottom as it was being cut with a oxy propane gas torch. Copyright Mick House.

Finally LL57 was laid to rest on the ground near to where she stood. Approximate weight of LL57 was 3 tons. Copyright Mick House.

Mid Cornwall re-signalling - 05/03/2024 - Martin Duff

Evening Admins,

My duties today took me to Lostwithiel.

The trailing connection from the down sidings has been plain lined and some track work over the viaduct completed to allow a speed increase for the branch turnout.

The down starting signal 57 has been felled. Preparations were in progress for upgrading the turnout from the down loop together with installation of new crossing equipment.

The removed connection to the former down goods yard/sidings, now plain lined. 05.03.2024, copyright Martin Duff.

The plain lined track on the down line at Lostwithiel. Although the sidings had been removed some time ago, the point which once led to them was still in place until last week. 05.03.2024, copyright Martin Duff.

The Orange Army busy going about their duties in Lostwithiel down goods loop. 05.03.2024. Copyright Martin Duff.

Signal LL6 still standing - for now. 05.03.2024, copyright Martin Duff.

Up signal LL3 still standing, minus its arm. 05.03.2024, copyright Martin Duff.

Signalling equipment at the start of the Fowey branch dismantled and awaiting recovery. 05.03.2024, copyright Martin Duff.

Lostwithiel Day 2 - 05.03.2024 - Alan Peters

A gloomy start at Lostwithiel with LL5 and the iconic bracket signal LL57 that has framed so many pictures now gone, work continues with plain lining the old clay sidings with 6C26 working in the station with Colas Rail 66846 top and tailed with 70814, the train later returned to Westbury whilst the Volker cranes remained in the up loop on 5th March 2024. Copyright Driver Alan Peters

Colas Rail 66846 being unloaded in the platform, the infamous LL57 bracket signal now removed 05/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters.

This view will never be the same again without LL57 bracket signal, a strange sight on 05/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters

LL6 bracket signal still holding on to its arms, although the finials have been removed 05/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters

The old and New, Up Main LL8 has lost its arm, finial and spectacles lenses 05/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters

Discarded ground signal (LL47) and yet to be commissioned new position light signal (CL7621) on 05/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters

Lostwithiel Day 3 - 06.03.2024 - Alan Peters

Colas Rail 6C27 entered to possession on 06/03/24 to Lostwithiel arriving 'wrong road' opposite LL60, still standing but disconnected this is the signal for the Down Goods Loop. Copyright Alan Peters.

Lostwithiel Up Loop Partial Renewal - 07.03.2024 - Mick House

On a wrong line working, 70 803 stands under signal LL6 (still awaiting its removal) with a ballast train of JNA wagons with spoil removed from the up loop at Lostwithiel, on the rear of the train is 70 814 with more JNA wagons this time with new ballast ready for the up loop. 07.03.2024, Copyright Mick House.

Unfortunately I did not arrive in time to see the old track panels and spoil removed. The train has been moved forward so that the new ballast wagons are adjacent to the work site, Road rail excavators 517 and 520 have started laying the ballast on the track bed or 4ft as it is known. 07.03.2024, copyright Mick House.

Following the two excavators comes a Bulldozer 553 that will level the ground ready for it to be compacted, this is done remotely with three in line compactors. 07.03.2024, copyright Mick House.

Rail crane 81621 Smithy comes along next to replace the track panels using a spreader beam. 07.03.2024, copyright Mick House.

Lostwithiel Day 4 - 07.03.2024 - Alan Peters

I'm still standing LL6 although finials removed on 07/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters

A very sorry looking LL58, the orange army busy themselves with converting the crossover to motorised points on 07/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters.

Small Volker Rail Kirow 25 tonne crane DRK 81621 "Smithy" lifts the new replacement catch point for the Up Goods loop on 07/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters

Colas Rail 70803 with 6C27 top and tailed with 70814 (out of sight) new signal CL5796 replacing LL52 which has been removed and placed to one side for recovery on 07/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters.

Volker Rail 1200 crane 'Nigel Chester' in the Up Goods Loop at Lostwithiel on 07/04/24. Copyright Alan Peters

Volker Rail small crane DRK81622 'Sarge' with 'Smithy' at Lostwithiel in the evening of 07/03/24. Copyright Alan Peters

The final push at Lostwithiel - 10.03.2024 - Jon Hird

Looking east at Lostwithiel, the semaphores have been removed but we have gained 2 tall poles carrying CCTV cameras aimed at the crossing and a colour light signal on the down platform. 10.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Looking west, we see the pile of redundant semaphore components at the end of the down platform and new colour light signals further along the line. 10.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The new token/staff machine at Coulson Park - Jon Hird - 10.04.2024

With the closure of Lostwithiel Signal Box, a new installation has been provided at Coulson Park at the start of the Fowey branch for traincrew to obtain the staff required to proceed down the branch to Fowey Carne Point.

The platform and equipment provided to house the Fowey Branch Staff/Token. 10.04.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The staff is kept within this locked cabinet when not in use. 10.04.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The Lostwithiel side of the new installation, a sign to advise drivers they are leaving the Staff section and a new colour light signal. 10.04.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

DB Cargo 66130 arrives with clay for Fowey. It has stopped at the new platform and the driver is operating the equipment in order to obtain the staff required to proceed. 10.04.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

other areas & Engineering Trains etc.

Other areas which have been affected by the resignalling program, but not in as much depth as the three 'main' areas above.

Also images of plant/trains/equipment 'en route' to the engineering blockade.

Cranes on the move - 24.02.2024 - Craig Munday

59003 is seen at St Austell on 24th with Colas Driver Alan Peters in charge. The cranes bound for the two week long blockade. Copyright Craig Munday.

St. Austell Ground Frame

St. Austell ground frame is another 'casualty' of the resignalling program. It will close and control over its signals/trackwork will pass to the Exeter Workstation.

43042 43093 work the 1211 St Austell to Plymouth. Note in the foreground the soon to be removed ground frame 27 February 2024. Copyright Paul Barlow.

A GWR 'Castle' consisting of 43097 and 43092 snakes over the crossover at St. Austell working the 13:11 St. Austell to Plymouth service on 29.02.2023. Network Rail staff can be seen walking from the old Motorail bays to operate the Ground Frame once the HST is clear. Copyright Jon Hird.

6C25 Truro - Westbury at St. Austell - 29.02.2024 - Craig Munday

6C25 Truro to Westbury at St Austell 66846 / 70803 29th Feb 2024. Copyright Craig Munday.

St. Austell Crossover - 29.02.2024 - Martin Duff

This morning I attended St.Austell where the ground frame is in its final few days of use. A short form HST turned up while I was there. We’ve put arrangements in place to allow an up train to start from the down platform. The points were converted for power operation earlier this month though for now remain part of ground frame working.

On completion of work a main aspect signal will be provided for the move, situated in parallel with the platform starting signal on the up line (presently known as PR104).

Next week when the blockade extends, down trains will terminate at Liskeard and start back to Plymouth from the down line.

A GWR HST trailed by 43092 uses the St. Austell Crossover as it heads to Plymouth. The ground frame is visible at the end of the platform. 29.02.2024. Copyright Martin Duff.

70814 + 66846 6C26 05:37 Westbury - Burngullow - 01.03.2024

The first engineers train of March into the county, 70814 leads 6C26 from Westbury to Burngullow with a train comprising of ballast, track panels and empty spoil wagons. 66846 was on the rear providing assistance. A member of staff was collected from the start of the blockade at Burngullow and the train continued at low speed towards the west.

70814 slowly creeps along the mainline at Burngullow heading west. 01.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

66846 running on the rear to provide additional power as the train continues west. 01.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Engineers Trains near Truro - Joseph Birchall - 01.03.2024

70814 on the front of the 13:00 down movement (6C26). Copyright Joseph Birchall.

66 846 on the rear of the 13:00 down movement (6C26). Copyright Joseph Birchall.

66 709 on the front of the 16:20 up movement (6G75). Copyright Joseph Birchall.

66 702 on the back of the 16:20 up movement (6G75). Note the decapitated signal. Copyright Joseph Birchall.

Engineers Trains in Mid Cornwall - 03.03.2024 - Jon Hird

A Colas track machine passes Lostwithiel heading for Tavistock Yard. 03.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

66846 parked at Crugwallins at the head of an incredibly long engineers train, consisting of ballast/spoil wagons, track panels, all 3 rail cranes and 70814 on the rear. 03.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

A more elevated view at Crugwallins to try to show the length of the train. 03.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

The sun sets on the engineers train at Crugwallins. In the sky above, the seagulls are returning to their roosts in the rafters of Burngullow! 03.03.2024, copyright Jon Hird.

Liskeard Crossover - 04.03.2024 - Peter Murnaghan

For the second week of the blockade, the line is shut west of Liskeard, which means that trains are terminating at Liskeard and using the crossover to reverse.

The unusual movement of an Up Train starting from the Down platform at Liskeard was captured in the rain this morning. 43042 is seen on the rear of the 1035 Liskeard - Plymouth, crossing to the up line, behind 43093. 04.03.2024, copyright Peter Murnaghan.

Liskeard crossover - 06.03.2024 - Craig Munday

2A76 awaits departure for Plymouth on 06.03.2024 in the hands of 43092 43097. Copyright Craig Munday.

Engineers heading East - 08.03.2024 - Craig Munday

Colas 70814 parked on the outskirts of Liskeard waiting to head east with an engineers train. The rear of the train and 70803 are on Moorswater Viaduct. 08.03.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

70814 and the three impressive rail cranes used at Truro and Lostwithiel for track replacement parked on Moorswater viaduct. They later headed east. 08.03.2024, copyright Craig Munday.

THE NEW WORKSTATION AT EXETER
By Martin Duff

Please click the thumbnail images below to obtain an enlargement.

ON-TRACK PLANT USED ON THE RE-SIGNALLING PROJECT
By Mick House

Please select a section below.

TRAILERS